Ramobatu says he’s not aware of PMO sexual harassment investigation
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has said an investigation into sexual harassment claim in his office is being investigated.
He did not say who is investigating the claim.
But Secretary to Cabinet, James Remobatu, who should be aware of the investigation, told the Sunday Star he was not aware of any investigations into the allegation.
“I did not receive any complaints on the matter you raised from the person you mentioned,” Remobatu responded in an email to the Sunday Star.
“Without such complaints being lodged, I am not aware of any internal investigations on this matter,” he added.
Remobatu also said last week’s cabinet meeting does not discuss the sexual harassement allegation.
“Cabinet met but it only deals with matters formally listed on its agenda and papers presented on them.
“It does not deal with matters not formally listed in their agenda for the meeting. It does not meet on a custom story basis.”
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Deli Oso has alleged Special Secretary to the Prime Minister (SSPM), Andrew Muaki, sexually harassed her.
She made the allegation in a letter she wrote to Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on 29 January 2016.
“I wish to inform you that that I have been subject to sexual harassment by the SSPM Muaki from time to time,” Oso said in her letter to Sogavare, a copy of which the Sunday Star sighted.
She said since her official functions come under the PM’s Private Office, which is headed by the SSPM, she found it very awkward to work with Muaki.
“Two other female officers – Sonia Wala and Hellen Rara – also complained of the same behaviour towards them by the SSPM,” Oso added.
After the Sunday Star broke the story in its last issue, Sogavare came out strongly and stated he will not tolerate sexual harassment in his office or any other government offices.
“There is zero tolerance towards such conduct and once the facts have been substantiated, immediate action will be taken to address the situation,” the prime minister said.
He claimed investigations into the claims are ongoing and as soon as details are forthcoming, those involved will face the consequences of their actions.
Whether investigations are truly underway, and who is heading it, remains in doubt in light of Remobatu’s statement.
One government insider pointed out if an investigation is underway, Remobatu should be aware of as secretary to cabinet.
“The investigation may not start yet,” the source said.
“It’s an issue within the government and the cabinet is responsible to make decisions thus the secretary to cabinet will know, or if nothing has been done he will know it as well.”
Muaki, who is currently in Australia on a personal trip, when contacted said he will not comment on the allegation until the investigation is completed.
“I’ve been instructed not to make any comments on the allegation until the investigation is done,” he told the Sunday Star.
Meanwhile, an insider in the PMO claimed Muaki has been officially suspended as of Friday to allow the investigation to start.
The Sunday Star has been unable to independently verify that claim.
By BRADFORD THEONOMI